ScienceDaily: Encephalitis News

Global warming trends contribute to spread of West Nile virus to new regions in Europe

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:52:52 EDT

Global warming trends have a significant influence on the spread of West Nile Virus to new regions in Europe and neighboring countries, where the disease wasn’t present before, according to a new study. The study found that rising temperatures have a more considerable contribution than humidity, to the spread of the disease, while the effect of rain was inconclusive.

Gone, but not forgotten: Scientists recall EP, perhaps the world’s second-most famous amnesiac

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:49:49 EDT

Neuroscientists have described for the first time, in exhaustive detail, the underlying neurobiology of an amnesiac who suffered from profound memory loss after damage to key portions of his brain.

Discovery points to new approach to fight dengue virus

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 19:49:49 EDT

Researchers have discovered that rising temperature induces key changes in the dengue virus when it enters its human host, and the findings represent a new approach for designing vaccines against the aggressive mosquito-borne pathogen.

How antibodies neutralize mosquito-borne virus

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 12:50:50 EDT

Researchers have learned the precise structure of the mosquito-transmitted chikungunya virus pathogen while it is bound to antibodies, showing how the infection is likely neutralized.

How herpesvirus invades nervous system

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:17:17 EDT

Scientists have identified a component of the herpesvirus that "hijacks" machinery inside human cells, allowing the virus to rapidly and successfully invade the nervous system upon initial exposure.

Findings to help in design of drugs against virus causing childhood illnesses

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:32:32 EDT

New research findings may help scientists design drugs to treat a virus infection that causes potentially fatal brain swelling and paralysis in children. The virus, called enterovirus 71, causes hand, foot and mouth disease, and is common throughout the world.

Map of 'shortcuts' between all human genes

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 15:16:16 EDT

Researchers have generated the full set of distances, routes and degrees of separation between any two human genes, creating a map of gene "shortcuts" that aims to simplify the hunt for disease-causing genes in monogenic diseases.

Surveillance system can identify and track emerging infectious diseases

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 11:02:02 EST

A team of researchers developed a method to identify the cause of infectious disease outbreaks based on online reports about the symptoms, the season, and the ratio of cases to fatalities. Using data from the Internet outbreak reporting system ProMED-mail, the researchers applied this method to more than 100 outbreaks of encephalitis in South Asia, recently identified as an emerging infectious disease "hotspot," to determine which of 10 infectious diseases was causing symptoms of encephalitis.

Cats and humans suffer from similar forms of epilepsy

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 09:03:03 EST

Epilepsy affects the very core of our being, our brain. Epileptic attacks can lead to seizures throughout the body or in parts of it. Clouding of consciousness or memory lapses are also possible. The causes are still only partially understood but in some cases brain tumors, infections, inflammations of the brain or metabolic diseases have been implicated.

Multiple sclerosis study reveals how killer T cells learn to recognize nerve fiber insulators

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 09:27:27 EST

Misguided killer T cells may be the missing link in sustained tissue damage in the brains and spines of people with multiple sclerosis. Mouse studies showed that killer T cells were activated and turned into cells that recognize nerve-coating proteins by Tip-dendritic cells. With probing, tentacle-like membrane protrusions, these instigators arise from inflammatory white blood cells. Conversely, the activated T cells might at times protect against MS. The researchers are seeking specific immunotherapies for MS that avoid side effects of general immunosuppressants.

Brain displays an intrinsic mechanism for fighting infection

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 22:12:12 EST

White blood cells have long reigned as the heroes of the immune system. When an infection strikes, the cells, produced in bone marrow, race through the blood to fight off the pathogen. But new research is emerging that individual organs can also play a role in immune system defense, essentially being their own hero. In a study examining a rare and deadly brain infection, scientists have found that the brain cells of healthy people likely produce their own immune system molecules, demonstrating an "intrinsic immunity" that is crucial for stopping an infection.

List of diseases spread by deer tick grows, including malaria-like problems and potentially fatal encephalitis

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 13:55:55 EST

An emerging tick-borne disease that causes symptoms similar to malaria is expanding its range in areas of the northeast where it has become well-established, according to new research.

Plants provide accurate low-cost alternative for diagnosis of West Nile Virus

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 16:47:47 EDT

Biologists have developed a new method of testing for West Nile, using plants to produce biological reagents for detection and diagnosis.

Researchers a step closer to controlling inflammation in multiple sclerosis

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:16:16 EDT

New research suggests a possible new mechanism to control multiple sclerosis.

Mosquito virus could lead to new vaccines and drugs

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:26:26 EDT

The newly discovered Eilat virus is closely related to some of the world's most dangerous pathogens but incapable of infecting non-insect hosts. This attribute could make the virus a uniquely useful tool for studying the viruses responsible for chikungunya, Venezuelan equine encephalitis, western equine encephalitis and eastern equine encephalitis. In addition, the researchers say, Eilat could also aid in the development of new vaccines, therapies and diagnostic techniques.

Public urged to take precautions against West Nile Virus

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 18:57:57 EDT

West Nile virus (WNV) has become endemic in North America with cases in 2012 exceeding that of any other year. Health care professionals and the public need to be on alert for WNV, medical researchers say.

Microbiologists find new approach to fighting viral illnesses

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 12:52:52 EDT

By discovering how certain viruses use their host cells to replicate, microbiologists have identified a new approach to the development of universal treatments for viral illnesses such as meningitis, encephalitis, hepatitis and possibly the common cold.

Patient suffers severe amnesia but musical memory remains intact

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 09:40:40 EDT

Scientists have examined a professional cellist who suffered from encephalitis caused by a herpes virus. As a result of the inflammation, the patient developed serious disturbances in memory. Both his memory for the past (retrograde amnesia), as well as the acquisition of new information (anterograde amnesia) were affected. Whereas the patient was unable to recount any events from his private or professional life, or remember any of his friends or relatives, he retained a completely intact musical memory.

Turmeric stopped potentially deadly Rift Valley fever virus from multiplying in infected cells

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 12:20:20 EDT

Curcumin, found in the popular spice turmeric, stopped the potentially deadly Rift Valley Fever virus from multiplying in infected cells, a new study shows.

Fluoxetine (a.k.a. Prozac) is effective as an anti-viral, study suggests

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 17:19:19 EDT

Using molecular screening of small molecule libraries, a team of researchers has been able to identify fluoxetine (commonly known as Prozac), a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, as a potent inhibitor of coxsackievirus replication.

Bats, a reservoir of resurgent viruses

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 10:42:42 EDT

Measles, mumps, pneumonia, influenza and encephalitis in man, Carré's disease in dogs, Ovine Rinderpest (PPR)… all of these diseases are caused by viruses from the same family: Paramyxoviridae. A new study has led to the discovery of more than 60 new species of these dangerous infectious agents, almost double the number previously recorded. This family of highly diverse pathogens affects all animals, from canines to fowl, cattle and humans. As a result, it is not always easy to determine which host is responsible for these viruses. Thanks to testing carried across the globe, the research team has recently discovered their source: bats.

Junior Seau’s death keeps spotlight on concussion issues in sports

Wed, 02 May 2012 18:44:44 EDT

Junior Seau’s apparent suicide might shock the sports world, but not concussion specialists. NFL players have a higher rate of depression, substance abuse, and dementia. This is thought to be connected to head impacts says an expert.

Bats: An unexpected virus reservoir

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:05:05 EDT

Researchers have discovered the probable cause of not just one, but several infectious agents at the same time. Paramyxoviruses originate from ubiquitous bats, from where the pathogens have spread to humans and other mammals. In total, this unique study tested 9,278 animals for viruses, among them 86 species of bats and 33 rodent species, leading to the discovery of an enormous number of new virus species. This could make eradicating many dangerous diseases significantly more difficult than had been thought. For bats provide a reservoir from which viruses could come back after vaccination campaigns.

Bartonella infection associated with rheumatoid illnesses in humans

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:18:18 EDT

A bacterium historically associated with cat scratch fever and transmitted predominately by fleas may also play a role in human rheumatoid illnesses such as arthritis, according to new research.

Shingles vaccine is safe, according to new study

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:49:49 EDT

The herpes zoster vaccine, also known as the shingles vaccine, is generally safe and well tolerated according to a Vaccine Safety Datalink study of 193,083 adults.

Early treatment improves outcomes in rare, often undiagnosed form of encephalitis

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 12:38:38 EDT

A mysterious, difficult-to-diagnose, and potentially deadly disease that was only recently discovered can be controlled most effectively if treatment is started within the first month that symptoms occur, according to a new report.

Studies reveal structure of EV71, a virus causing childhood illnesses

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 13:24:24 EST

Researchers have discovered critical new details about the structure of a virus (enterovirus 71) that causes potentially fatal brain swelling and paralysis in children, pointing toward designs for antiviral drugs to treat the disease.

Antibodies are not required for immunity against some viruses

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:34:34 EST

A new study turns the well established theory that antibodies are required for antiviral immunity upside down and reveals that an unexpected partnership between the specific and non-specific divisions of the immune system is critical for fighting some types of viral infections. The research may lead to a new understanding of the best way to help protect those exposed to potentially lethal viruses, such as the rabies virus.

Health benefits of exercise may depend on cellular degradation

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:45:45 EST

The health benefits of exercise on blood sugar metabolism may come from the body's ability to devour itself.

Anti-infective drug shortages pose threat to public health and patient care

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:29:29 EST

Shortages of key drugs used to fight infections represent a public health emergency and can put patients at risk, according to a new review. Frequent anti-infective shortages can substantially alter clinical care and may lead to worse outcomes for patients, particularly as the development of new anti-infectives has slowed and the prevalence of multidrug-resistant pathogens is increasing.

Small molecule hobbles dengue in vitro and in vivo

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:34:34 EDT

A novel compound inhibits dengue virus, as well as other closely related important human pathogens, according to new research.

Borrelia infection in ticks in Norway

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:35:35 EDT

The most common tick-borne disease in humans is Lyme borreliosis. Extensive field and laboratory tests have revealed that the Borrelia bacterium is present in a larger proportion of ticks than has been shown by earlier studies. Another finding is that migratory birds play an important role in the spreading of ticks and pathogenic agents borne by ticks.

New protein regulates water in the brain to control inflammation

Mon, 02 May 2011 14:16:16 EDT

A new protein, called aquaporin-4, is making waves and found to play a key role in brain inflammation, or encephalitis. This discovery is important as the first to identify a role for this protein in inflammation, opening doors for the development of new drugs that treat brain inflammation and other conditions at the cellular level rather than just treating the symptoms.

Proteins may affect behavior and physiology of female mosquitoes

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 19:27:27 EDT

Researchers have identified 93 seminal fluid proteins and 52 sperm male-derived proteins that include candidates likely to affect the behavior and physiology of female mosquitoes of the species, Aedes aegypti.

Early-life brain inflammation may increase susceptibility to drug addiction in adulthood

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 15:54:54 EST

An episode of brain inflammation early in life may lead to long-lasting changes in the brain that increase the risk of developing drug addiction during adulthood, a new animal study found. Brain inflammation is most often caused by head injury or a viral infection such as encephalitis or meningitis.

Potential new treatment for deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses; May also lead to new treatments for measles, mumps and influenza

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 17:45:45 EDT

Scientists have identified a potential new treatment for the Nipah and Hendra viruses, two lethal and emerging viruses for which there is currently no treatment or vaccine available. The approach could also lead to new therapies for measles, mumps and the flu.

Scientists uncover evolution of new virus, closely related to poliovirus

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 11:36:36 EDT

Scientists have completed the first major review of diagnostic methods and treatments for a rapidly evolving virus that causes hand, foot and mouth disease in children. The virus, called enterovirus 71, is closely related to poliovirus, and was first detected in California in the 1960s. Since then the virus has spread across Asia, affecting mostly children and some adults. Serious cases of the disease can include neurological disorders such as meningitis, paralysis and encephalitis.

Genome of mosquito that spreads West Nile virus, encephalitis and elephantiasis decoded

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 14:27:27 EDT

Scientists have decoded the genome of the southern house mosquito, which transmits the devastating diseases West Nile virus, encephalitis and elephantiasis, giving the global effort to contain mosquito-borne diseases a new understanding of the insects and the evolution of the diseases they spread.

Need to undertake epidemiological monitoring programs for ticks confirmed

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:22:22 EDT

Researchers have undertaken a study of ticks, tick-borne diseases and the reservoirs of tick-borne pathogens, which has confirmed the importance of continuous surveillance programs to monitor these arthropods.

Mumps vaccine coverage should be improved, study finds

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 16:15:15 EDT

Although immunity to mumps is high in the United States, mumps vaccine coverage must be maintained and improved to prevent future outbreaks, according to a new study.

Alphavirus-based vaccine may slow some cancers

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:58:58 EDT

An experimental vaccine based on a virus that causes encephalitis in the wild appears to block tumor growth in some cases of advanced cancer, according to new research. Scientists say the vaccine is able to stimulate an immune response, even in the face of profound immune system suppression, a condition most patients with advanced cancer experience.

Birth defect risk from insect bites received by mother during pregnancy

Mon, 03 May 2010 16:14:14 EDT

Researchers have discovered that bacteria transmitted by fleas -- and potentially ticks -- can be passed to human babies by the mother, causing chronic infections and raising the possibility of bacterially induced birth defects.

Visualizing brain invasion by a fungus

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 21:29:29 EDT

Infection with the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans can cause meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain itself), conditions that are often lethal. To elicit these effects, the fungus must somehow leave the blood stream and enter the brain, but little is known about how it does this. A team of researchers has now used a form of microscopy known as intravital microscopy, which enables researchers to observe events in real-time in live animals, to visualize in mice the process of brain invasion by Cryptococcus neoformans.

Tapeworm brain infection 'serious health concern'

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 09:25:25 EDT

Tapeworm infections of the brain, which can cause epileptic seizures, appear to be increasing in Mexico and bordering southwestern states, researchers report.

Infectious virus hidden in chromosomes can be passed from parents to children

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 15:10:10 EST

In some individuals the common herpes virus HHV-6 can integrate into structures at the end of chromosomes and be reactivated to an infectious form.

Experimental vaccine protects monkeys against mosquito-borne chikungunya virus

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 16:58:58 EST

Researchers have developed an experimental vaccine for chikungunya virus and successfully tested it in monkeys.

New study casts doubt on link between chronic fatigue syndrome and human retrovirus XMRV

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 21:48:48 EST

A new study casts doubt on recent claims that a human retrovirus known as XMRV is linked to chronic fatigue syndrome or ME (myalgic encephalitis).

Human genetic vulnerabilities may underlie infectious diseases, scientist argues

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 20:44:44 EST

Infectious diseases in the general population depend to a large extent on underlying genetic vulnerabilities, an expert in innate immunity says. While microbes are required for infection, he says, one's genetic background could make the difference between fighting an infection and succumbing to it.

Virus-like particle vaccine protects monkeys from chikungunya virus

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 16:58:58 EST

An experimental vaccine developed using noninfectious virus-like particles (VLP) has protected macaques and mice against chikungunya virus, a mosquito-borne pathogen that has infected millions of people in Africa and Asia and causes debilitating pain, researchers have found.

Immune Cells Predict Outcome Of West Nile Virus Infection

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 22:58:58 EDT

Infection with West Nile virus (WNV) causes no symptoms in most people. However, it can cause fever, meningitis, and/or encephalitis. Researchers now report that levels of immune cells known as Tregs (immune cells that suppress the function of other immune cells) in the blood of a human or mouse infected with WNV predict whether the person or mouse will have symptoms of infection.

Common Viral Infection In Infants May Persist Long-term In Central Nervous System

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:15:15 EDT

A new study suggests that coxsackievirus, a significant human pathogen that commonly infects the central nervous system of newborns, may persist in the body as a low-level, long-term infection causing ongoing inflammatory lesions. This discovery disputes previous beliefs that while acute, coxsackievirus is also self-limiting.

New Control System Of The Body Discovered

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:06:06 EDT

Researchers have ameliorated inflammation of the brain in mice caused by immune cells. A receptor they discovered on T cells in the CNS plays the key role. They showed that this bradykinin receptor 1 controls the infiltration of immune cells into the CNS. When they activated B1 in mice with encephalitis, the inflammation markedly decreased. This may unveil a new target for the treatment of diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

Nanotechnology Combats Fatal Brain Infections

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:19:19 EDT

Scientists have developed novel peptide nanoparticles that effectively seek out and destroy bacteria and fungal cells that could cause fatal infections.

Eczema Patients Most At Risk For Dangerous Viral Infections

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:03:03 EDT

Eczema patients at risk for serious viral infections have more severe disease, are more likely to be allergic to food and other allergens, and have a frequent history of staph infections, according to researchers. The findings could help identify people at risk for serious complications of smallpox vaccinations, and point to defects in the skin barrier and antimicrobial-protein production as possible causes for the increased susceptibility.

Vaccine Slows Progression Of Skeletal Muscle Disorder

Wed, 13 May 2009 12:12:12 EDT

A potential vaccine for Alzheimer's disease also has been shown in mice to slow the weakening of muscles associated with inclusion body myositis, a disorder that affects the elderly.

New Insights Into How Brain Responds To Viral Infection

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:33:33 EDT

Scientists have discovered that astrocytes, supportive cells in the brain that are not derived from an immune cell lineage, respond to a molecule that mimics a viral infection using cellular machinery similar to that used by classical immune cells in the blood. This work provides a new understanding of the complex mechanisms responsible for induction and regulation of inflammation in the brain and has significant implications for both the diagnosis and treatment of brain infections.

Rabies Deaths From Dog Bites Could Be Eliminated Globally

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:07:07 EDT

Someone in the developing world -- particularly in rural Africa -- dies from a rabid dog bite every 10 minutes. But global elimination of this horrific disease appears to be possible, according to scientists.

Molecular Target For Treatment Of West Nile Encephalitis Identified Through Studies In Mice

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 13:37:37 EST

In animal studies, researchers have identified molecular interactions that govern the immune system's ability to defend the brain against West Nile virus, offering the possibility that drug therapies could be developed to improve success in treating West Nile and other viral forms of encephalitis. Critical mechanism enables blood-borne immune cells to sense West Nile virus and to neutralize and clear the infection in the brain.

Brain Structure Assists In Immune Response

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:26:26 EST

For the first time, medical researchers have imaged in real time the body's immune response to a parasitic infection in the brain.

New Bartonella Species That Infects Humans Discovered

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:50:50 EST

Researchers have produced the first link between a species of bacteria most commonly found in sheep and human illness.